Isla & Pickle: Best Friends

PreS-K—A girl named Isla tries to convince her father that Pickle, a Shetland pony, is the perfect pet for her. Pickle lives at Farmer Jess's field, which is next door to Isla's home. Isla is immediately impressed with the clever, handsome, and funny pony. The two enjoy their adventures together. The simple narrative and colorful cartoon illustrations give readers context clues to show the evolution and growth of Isla and Pickle's friendship. This is evident through the repeated images of Pickle even when he is not physically present. Pickle can be seen in the photographs Isla collects, a stuffed animal she has, and the clothing she chooses to wear. The book follows a logical and predictable sequence. The illustrations have a childlike and playful quality that is captured with the rounded simple shapes of characters and scenery. Patterns are a focal point throughout this book. Readers' eyes will be drawn to the textures, lines, and curves present in different patterns scattered throughout.